Spring Survival Guide: Stay Healthy, Energized and Happy This Season

It’s no secret that the body’s inner clock is affected by the rhythms of the year, with changes in food availability, sun exposure and even amount of precipitation all weighing in on your health and wellbeing. The modern study of these rhythms, called Chronobiology, dates back to the early 18th century in the scientific world, but yoga’s sister science Ayurveda has recognized the influence of seasonality for thousands of years, and in response offers up Ritucharya, seasonal routines, to keep you balanced and healthy twelve months a year.

Late Winter/Spring RX: Lighten Up!

Known as Kapha Season in Ayurveda, the second half of winter and spring reflect the accumulated cold and heaviness of our long winter. When the light, dry snow turns to a heavy sleet and the ice caps begin to melt into our rivers, our bodies may mirror this great thaw in the form of mucus-laden colds and allergies, brain fog, fatigue, and even weight gain and depression. This season, lighten up with mental stimulation, movement and light, purifying diet.

Best foods: Warm, light, spiced foods like dark leafy greens cooked with ginger, turmeric and cumin, barley, legumes, and small amounts of sprouts and seeds.

Avoid: Heavy foods like potatoes, fried foods and red meat, ice cream and cold foods.

Yoga: Dynamic Vinyasa practices with sun salutations, twists and arm balances are best.

Exercise: Run, hike, and bike with friends to break a sweat get your heart rate up!

Lifestyle Tip: Spring is the best time for a seasonal cleanse, removing processed foods, sugar and alcohol from your diet for 10-30 days.